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Zoning administrator flags animal neglect, unpermitted grows and zoning map gaps
Summary
Zoning Administrator Joe Kline told the planning commission the township lacks heavy industrial and two commercial zoning categories; Kline also reported investigations into animals left at 5125 6 Mile Road and unpermitted marijuana growers at locations on M Drive South, M‑66 and 2 Mile Road.
Zoning Administrator Joe Kline reported zoning and enforcement issues to the Athens Township Board at the April 7, 2026 meeting, including an animal‑welfare complaint and several unpermitted marijuana grows.
Deputy Clerk Amy Heath told the planning commission has been informed that the township zoning map does not include a heavy industrial district, highway service commercial or neighborhood service commercial categories; Heath said Kline raised this at the planning commission. Kline told the board he answered three zoning questions during the month and has three land division requests pending.
Kline said he has been informed that animals are being left alone for extended periods at 5125 6 Mile Road in East Leroy and that he is checking the situation; the Sheriff’s Department is also involved. Kline also reported marijuana growers operating at locations on M Drive South, M‑66 and 2 Mile Road and said he is working on those matters.
No formal enforcement actions, citations or outcomes were recorded in the meeting transcript; the board discussed the reports but took no additional formal motions specific to enforcement at that time.
